Defining Terms Used for Animals Working in Support Roles for People with Support Needs.

ABSTRACT: The nomenclature used to describe animals working in roles supporting people can be confusing. The same term may be used to describe different roles, or two terms may mean the same thing. This confusion is evident among researchers, practitioners, and end users. Because certain animal roles are provided with legal protections and/or government-funding support in some jurisdictions, it is necessary to clearly define the existing terms to avoid confusion. The aim of this paper is to provide operationalized definitions for nine terms, which would be useful in many world regions: "assistance animal", "companion animal", "educational/school support animal", "emotional support animal", "facility animal", "service animal", "skilled companion animal", "therapy animal", and "visiting/visitation ani

SUBMITTER: Howell TJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9367407 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature